Big-ticket benefits such as medical and retirement plans usually get highlighted in company brochures, but these plans only provide part of what employees may need in today’s complex world. What happens outside of work can significantly affect an employee’s productivity, relations with coworkers and even job safety.
Whether caused by personal problems or external crises, stress is a leading cause of absenteeism and “presenteeism” in employees. In a 2020 survey by the American Psychological Association,1 top sources of stress included the COVID-19 pandemic (78%), the future of the nation (77%), health care (66%), money (64%) and the economy (63%).
To help reduce the impact of these life intrusions, many employers are implementing employee assistance programs (EAPs ) that provide access to resources employees can use to manage work or home-related stress and anxiety, financial responsibilities and more.
An actively promoted EAP may help increase productivity, improve employee job satisfaction and reduce overall absenteeism and attrition.
Why an EAP?
In times of crisis or stress, many people don’t know where to turn. EAPs can provide support that employees otherwise may not seek. Like other workplace benefits, EAP resources are easy to access, and employees can trust that the program is supported by qualified professionals who understand the importance of confidentiality.
By proactively encouraging the use of EAPs, companies can reduce the odds that personal employee issues and concerns will intrude upon the workplace. Promoting the tools and services under an EAP may be time well spent for companies looking to improve overall employee engagement and efficiency.
What to look for in an EAP
EAPs vary by provider, but they frequently include counseling services, financial and legal assistance and online referral services.
From an organizational standpoint, EAP providers can work with companies to implement violence prevention and response programs, create crisis and disaster preparedness programs, and also provide traumatic and critical incident services.
For more information about EAPs, read our Inside Track educational paper.
1 “Stress in America™ 2020,” American Psychological Association, accessed February 9, 2021.
